More talks on Tuesday in bid to avoid ferry strike

CalMac organised a limited passenger-only service during the last strike by the RMT on June 26 using the chartered catamaran MV Clipper. Talks are to continue in a bid to avert a further 24-hour stoppage on July 10.

Craig Borland

Talks between CalMac and the RMT and TSSA unions will continue on Tuesday in the hope of averting more ferry strike action - but the ferry operator has already started making preparations for another 24-hour stoppage.

A meeting on Monday was described as “positive” by the RMT, and the two sides are to meet again on Tuesday for further discussion of the union’s concerns over jobs, conditions and pensions.

CalMac posted the following statement on their website on Monday evening.

“Talks are ongoing and we have agreed to meet the RMT and TSSA again tomorrow.

“There a number of things we wish to reflect on, however, as the RMT have indicated their intention to press ahead with strike action on Friday (July 10) we have no option but to start changing bookings and customers will be contacted directly.

“We remain fully committed to operating as many services as we can on Friday in order to minimise any disruption and the latest service information will be made available on our website and via social media e.g. @calmac_updates on Twitter.”

The issue of bookings does not arise on Bute since both the Rothesay-Wemyss Bay and Rhubodach-Colintraive services are non-reservable.